The 3 R's of Wine!

Notes From the Cellar….. This weekend's tasting is going to be an exploration of the 3 R's- that's Rosé, Riesling and Ruché! Never had a rosé from Minervois? Been generally unimpressed with Riesling? Never even heard of Ruché? Well that's why we're here. Come on by Friday from 3-6 and Saturday anytime and sample these delicious wines that are sure to impress. '14 Chateau St. Eulalie Minervois "Printemps d'Eulalie", Languedoc, France- The estate’s vineyards are located on the terraced hills in the appellation of Minervois in the Languedoc. Since its purchase in 1996 the vineyards have been farmed organically- currently certified sustainable. A blend of syrah, cinsault, carignan & grenache, it is medium pink in color with tart strawberry & raspberry flavors, refreshing acidity and a dry finish. Perfect for sunny afternoons, shellfish and salads. $15.99 ’13 Von Winning Riesling, Pfalz, Germany- Probably one of the biggest rising star estates of Germany right now, Von Winning has been turning out exquisite wines with texture and character under the watchful direction of Stefan Attmann. From their entry Rieslings through their Grand Crus, Attmann keeps fanatic focus on creating great wines that can stand up with any across Europe. Organically farmed (transitioning to biodynamic), raising the wine in traditional, huge oak casks and using only natural, ambient yeasts, he is committed to creating wines of substance naturally. Displaying melon fruits, citrus and markedly floral aromas with just a tiny bit of sweetness that helps to create wonderful balance on the palate with its lip smacking acidity, this Riesling is of amazing quality at the “basic” echelon. Pair with shellfish, sushi, roasted pork and soft cheeses. $23.99 ’11 La Mondianese Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato, Piedmont, Italy- So this is one of those grapes that you may not have heard of before but is definitely worth giving a try. It is a relatively scarcely grown grape in the hills north of Asti in Piedmont- completely overshadowed by the region's more well known varietals. Made from 100% Ruché that is fermented in stainless steel before spending 5 months in old oak barriques, this is an approachable medium bodied wine that displays floral and dark berry aromas and a bit of black pepper. Very smooth textured with fresh acidity and soft tannins, it pairs well with Italian dishes, salami, roasted white meats and hard cheeses. $22.99 And as always take 10% off any 3 wines we are tasting. On the beer front we have recent additions from SixPoint, Founders, Ommegang, Brewmaster Jack & Anderson Valley.

Cheers!